Niger governor calls for peaceful LG polls

Gov. Abubakar Bello of Niger has enjoined people of the state to ensure peaceful conduct during the Saturday local government elections in the 25 councils in the state.

A statement by Bello's Chief Press Secretary, Jibrin Ndace, said that the election would be a test for the administration.

"The conduct of the local government election is a proof of our commitment to fully democratise the polity by ensuring that leadership at the third tier of government in the state is elected.

"Local Government election is a crucial one. That is why we have ensured a level playing ground for all. We have to get it right by being peaceful and orderly before, during and after the elections on Saturday.

"This we believe will help to take governance to the people and make them the main factor in decision making and implementation at the grassroots level.

"It is in the light of this that I call on our people to come out on Saturday to carry out their civic responsibility in an orderly and peaceful manner," it said.

The statement also quoted the governor as charging the State Independent Electoral Commission to ensure transparency in the conduct of the elections by adhering strictly to the electoral laws.